Russell is 56-year-old man. He became a qualified baker and pastry maker in 1986 and went on to gain employment with a major food processing company for the bulk of his adult career which spanned 17 years in total. He prides himself on having an excellent work ethic and only missed one day in 17 years. He was often the man to be relied upon on to come in hours early on late notice or as emergency cover for relief on shifts, it was for Russell any sacrifice to help the company and maintain production.

After the injury he says he was not treated with due care or compassion by his workplace and felt pressured by HR to return prematurely after only a few months off. He ended up ultimately reinjuring his back not long after returning. This was something that could have been realistically prevented according to Russell by better management procedures and communication/understanding on the companies’ behalf.

Russell felt badly let down by the company and says after this second work injury his employment was very unfairly terminated. His state of mind and general mood was terribly impacted, leaving Russell feeling betrayed and horrified at the gross mistreatment he had endured. Russell had planned to dedicate his working life to this company and ultimately retire there upon completion of a long and loyal service.

After this traumatic event Russell was assigned to an employment agency whom in turn referred him to Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre (BNC). Roxanne was his first point of contact, and she was the person who initiated a drastic change in his life at this point. Russell felt a colossal barrier greatly impeding him from retraining was his total IT illiteracy. He, with the guidance of the BNC staff members, decided to enrol in a Basic Computer course. He enjoyed it so much he immediately upon completion signed up for the Intermediate Computer course which he conquered with no hassle.

Russel now considers himself adept at using the computer and its various programs along with all the other associated modern technological devices. This includes his smartphone with its internet and multimedia features, features which before his training he had no idea how to utilize. Russell talked glowingly on how much these newly acquired skills have empowered him to thrive in this increasingly technological era.

Russell stated in school he had no real interest in academics but by doing these courses through BNC it has made him realise just how much he now enjoyed studying and learning as a mature adult. Completing these computer courses with BNC gave Russel confidence. He was inspired while attending hydrotherapy for his back and seeing carers in the pool assisting clients with disabilities to pursue a Certificate IV 4 in Disability Support.

He excelled academically at this certificate, receiving tremendous positive feedback from his tutor for outstanding excellence in his submitted assignments and coursework. The placement component of the certificate lead to him securing paid work as a support person for an average of 13 hours per week. This part time work suits Russell as he then also has time to dedicate towards his wellness journey for his ongoing health concerns. This journey is progressing well and Russell is doing everything he can to keep getting better.

BNC really helped to give Russell a new zest for life. He especially enjoyed being in the classroom with people from all walks of life and they all helped each other out during their study journey. He is also very much connected with various BNC staff members. They helped to provide not only emotional but also practical support, which he has found invaluable towards putting his life into an upward trajectory.

Russell is currently enrolled at Federation University and is due to start studying towards his training and assessment accreditation in 2024 opening even more exciting pathways in his bright future.

In 2024, BNC staff nominated Russell for an Adult Learners Week Scholarship.  The scholarships provide financial assistance to support the adult education journey of students. We were delighted for Russell when he received a Learning Changes Lives scholarship for his dedication to learning and personal growth.  Congratulations Russell, a worthy recipient.

We know the journey towards a destination is as important as the destination itself. Regardless of how you Connect with us, we will travel this journey with you; sharing your highs and lows, the good and the bad times, and working with you to help you Learn and Participate.

This story was captured by John in December 2023 as a student placement project for his Bachelor of Community and Human Services degree. Names may be changed.